Searches for a missing person and eight people cut off by the tide were launched by emergency crews.

Margate’s RNLI lifeboats were called out at 7pm on Sunday to help police search the Palm Bay area for a vulnerable person reported missing.

The person was found after a shoreline search by boats from both Margate and Herne Bay.

As crews were returning to base they were called out again to reports that eight people had been cut off by the tide at Botany Bay.

After spotting the group in a small bay two lifeboat members swam ashore to establish the group was safe and well.

The group were escorted by the RNLI around a headland and into Botany Bay where coastguard teams took them to safety.

Margate RNLI's Ian Lowe said: “A strong north-easterly wind and marginal sea state made this a tricky operation for the lifeboat crew.

“We urge people not to attempt to wade or swim around headlands to reach safety.

“Often it means just sitting it out and awaiting the tide to recede but on all occasions people should dial 999 and ask the coastguard for advice.”